Meaning of Breaking Down Barriers by Elton John

The song titled 'Breaking Down Barriers' by Elton John is a heartfelt and emotive piece that explores the journey of breaking down emotional walls and opening oneself up to love. With its uplifting melody and powerful lyrics, this song speaks to the universal struggle of vulnerability and showcases the growth and transformation that can come from embracing love.One standout lyric from the song is "I built a wall all around my heart, to keep the pain away." This line speaks to the initial instinct to protect oneself from potential heartbreak and disappointment. It reflects the fear of getting hurt that many people experience, leading them to create emotional barriers that prevent them from fully connecting with others. The theme here is the fear of vulnerability and the initial self-preservation instincts that we may develop as a defense mechanism.However, the next line, "Your love still found its way inside, and couldn't get back out," introduces a contrasting theme - the unstoppable force of love. Despite our efforts to shield ourselves, love has a way of breaking down even the most fortified walls. This statement emphasizes the transformative power of love and its ability to penetrate even the most guarded heart. It speaks to the idea that love cannot be contained or controlled, and ultimately encourages the listener to embrace vulnerability.The chorus of the song reinforces the overarching theme of breaking down barriers and opening oneself up to love. "I'm breaking down the barriers, making up my mind," expresses a newfound determination to let go of fear and take a chance on love. It signifies a conscious decision to push past the emotional walls that have been erected and embrace the unknown. This theme of empowerment and self-realization is underscored by the line, "I'm taking down the barriers and loving what I find," which highlights the transformative nature of love when one allows themselves to experience it fully.Another notable lyric is "You gotta go where the feeling flows, I take it while it's hot." This line delves into the idea of following intuition and going with the flow of emotions. It suggests that one should not overthink or strategize when it comes to matters of the heart, but instead allow themselves to be guided by their emotions. This theme emphasizes the importance of spontaneity and seizing opportunities for love when they arise.The final lyric, "I'm breaking down barriers of time," adds a fantastical element to the song. It portrays love as a force that transcends time and defies conventional limitations. This theme explores the idea that love has the power to overcome societal expectations, age differences, and other temporal constraints. It encourages listeners to free themselves from restrictive perceptions of love and embrace connections that may be deemed unconventional.In summary, 'Breaking Down Barriers' by Elton John explores the universal theme of breaking down emotional barriers and embracing vulnerability in love. It delves into the initial fear and self-preservation instincts that lead to the creation of these walls, but also highlights the transformative power of love and the necessity of embracing vulnerability. The song encourages listeners to go with the flow of emotions, seize opportunities for love, and challenge conventional notions of romantic relationships. With its powerful lyrics and uplifting melody, this song serves as a reminder of the beauty and growth that can come from breaking down our own barriers and allowing love to flourish.